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Mesothelioma and Asbestos Exposure Malignant mesothelioma affects the linings of organs internal to them. Asbestos exposure is a major risk factor. Asbestos is a fire-resistant mineral fiber used in many occupations until it was banned in the 1970s. Miner, construction workers shipyard workers, factory workers and veteran employees are at risk the most of exposure. What is Mesothelioma? The mesothelium acts as a protective lining that covers various organs of the body. Most often, malignant mesothelioma forms in the lungs (pleura) and abdomen. It can also be found in the lining of the heart (pericardium) or testes. Around 3,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with mesothelioma annually. The only cause that is known for this rare cancer is exposure to asbestos. Asbestos was a once-popular fibrous material in American industries due to its low cost and fire resistance. It was used in the construction of homes, buildings aircrafts, ships, ships and automobiles. The people who worked on these projects could have been exposed to asbestos when workers cut, removed or handled the materials. Exposure to these materials could result in mesothelioma a few decades after exposure. The first symptoms of mesothelioma typically resemble those of other illnesses such as lung cancer, making it difficult to identify. Early symptoms include difficulty breathing and chest pain as well as an ongoing cough. As the disease progresses, more serious symptoms, such as weight loss and fatigue, could develop. There are four kinds of mesothelioma. Each type has a different prognosis. The most common type is pleural mesothelioma which affects the lining of the lungs and chest cavity (pleura). Other mesothelioma types include testicular, pericardial and peritoneal. Each has distinct symptoms. However each type is characterized with an inflamed malignant tumor that encircles vital organs. If doctors suspect mesothelioma they will order a biopsy to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample from the affected area is examined with a microscopy. If cancer is discovered and the patient is diagnosed with sarcomatoid or epithelioid mesothelio. Epithelioid mesothelioma accounts for 70% to 88% of mesothelioma cases, and is more receptive to treatment. Sarcomatoid mesothelioma on the contrary, accounts for just 10% of mesothelioma diagnoses and has a lower prognosis than epithelioid mesothelioma. Anyone who has been exposed to asbestos is at risk of developing mesothelioma. Certain groups are more likely of developing the disease than others. People who work in asbestos and military veterans and those who have a history of mesothelioma are among the groups. People who have had asbestos-related radiation treatment are also at risk of developing mesothelioma. Mesothelioma Symptoms Mesothelioma occurs in the tissues that protect and line the internal organs. This includes the lung (pleura), abdomen (peritoneum) and the peritoneum. The likelihood of developing mesothelioma rises when asbestos is exposed at work. Pleural mesothelioma is by far the most frequent mesothelioma type. It affects the lining in the lungs. Asbestos fibers irritate the mesothelium, and over time, the cells get damaged, and the genetic changes that occur cause the cells to become malignant and form tumors. The symptoms of mesothelioma are diverse and can include coughing chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Other symptoms include fatigue, nausea and weight loss as well as trouble swallowing. Mesothelioma is a rare form of cancer it can take anywhere between 10 to 60 year before it shows its first signs. It is often mistaken for other illnesses like the flu or pneumonia. Mesothelioma can be difficult to identify because it is rare, and its symptoms are similar to those of other illnesses. Doctors generally do not associate mesothelioma with asbestos exposure until the mesothelioma is at a late stage. The doctor will ask about the patient's past asbestos exposure and conduct a physical exam. Imaging scans are used by doctors to diagnose mesothelioma and to rule out other illnesses. In addition to a physical exam the doctor may also recommend imaging scans or blood tests of the abdomen and chest. The imaging tests could include CT scans, MRI, PET scans or X-rays. A biopsy is often requested by a doctor to confirm a mesothelioma diagnosis and to determine the mesothelioma type is present. The biopsy can be an exploratory procedure or a minimally invasive procedure. In an examination, doctors remove small amounts of mesothelium and search for mesothelioma. The majority of mesothelioma diagnosis are epithelioid cells. The sarcomatoid type is less responsive to treatment and is more likely to have a shorter life expectancy. The epithelioid type is more tolerant to treatments and has a better prognosis. The biphasic type is a combination of the two types and is responsible for 30 to 40% of mesothelioma diagnoses. Causes of Mesothelioma Mesothelioma is usually found in the lining of the lungs (pleura), though it can also develop in the abdomen's lining (peritoneum) or the lining of the heart (pericardium). Every year, mesothelioma is diagnosed in around 3,000 people. It is the only known cancer caused by asbestos. Mesothelioma usually takes 20-50 years to develop after exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral found naturally with properties that resist heat. For a long time it was utilized in many American industries because it is affordable and fire-resistant. The asbestos industry was particularly lucrative for the construction industry, as it was used to insulate and fireproof buildings, ships, automobiles and other items. Construction workers were at the greatest risk of exposure to asbestos. Workers who worked with asbestos or took it away were exposed to fibers which are sharp and could cause serious health problems. The fibers can be swallowed and inhaled and can cause irritation to the mesothelium. Over time the irritation causes scar tissue to grow and can cause tumors. Different types of mesothelioma affect different areas of the body. The most common type of mesothelioma affects the lining in the chest cavity and the lung. It is the most prevalent mesothelioma type and can cause symptoms such as breathing difficulties or pain. Mesothelioma can also affect the lining of the abdominal cavity causing symptoms such as swelling, pain or digestive problems. oakland asbestos law firm can also affect the lining of the heart and cause unique symptoms such as chest pain or palpitations. Mesothelioma symptoms may be confused with other ailments. It is important to consult your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. Your doctor will perform physical examinations and may conduct imaging tests to check for abnormalities. These tests include CT scans MRIs and PET scanners. These tests will allow doctors to see if any mesothelioma-related changes are evident within your body. Although mesothelioma does not transmit, family members of those exposed to asbestos are at a higher risk for developing the disease. Workers who were exposed brought asbestos fibers home and sprayed them on their clothing, hair and skin. These individuals could then inhale asbestos fibers. This kind of secondhand exposure is known as secondary asbestos exposure. Treatment for Mesothelioma Mesothelioma, like other cancers is a result of cells in the human body begin to multiply uncontrollably. They also reproduce and spread to other areas of the body, leading to tumors (masses) to form. The primary risk factor for mesothelioma is the exposure to asbestos. Asbestos is a mineral that is fibrous that was utilized in construction and other industries prior to its ban in the 1970s. When exposed, the tiny fibres can be inhaled and consumed. They can then become lodged in the linings of certain organs and cause mesothelioma. The asbestos-related workers particularly those who were responsible for removing or handling it, have the highest risk of developing mesothelioma. Blue-collar employees, and even family members of asbestos workers are at risk. Workers may bring asbestos fibers back home on their clothes. Family members could breathe in asbestos fibers as they clean their clothes. Although mesothelioma is rare, it is important to see a doctor if you have symptoms that could be related to the condition. This includes chest pain, breathing difficulties or a persistent cough. The doctor will ask about your health background and when you may have been exposed to asbestos. The doctor will also perform a chest X ray and a physical exam to determine if you have mesothelioma. Other tests include a computed-tomography scan (CT), positron emission tomography, or magnetic resonance imaging. If mesothelioma is diagnosed the doctor will speak with you about possible treatment options. These might include chemotherapy, surgery, or radiation. Treatment options will depend on the type of mesothelioma, and how far along it has advanced. While there is no cure for mesothelioma, the correct treatment can improve the chance of surviving. Download your free Mesothelioma guide to find out more about this condition and the available treatments. No obligation, we'll email it to you for free. We can also be reached by calling 1-888-3146906. You can ask nurses any questions. You can also reach an attorney for a no-cost consultation regarding the possibility of filing a mesothelioma lawsuit. We are committed to helping you and your family members receive the compensation you deserve.